THE TROJANS: Should be feeling pretty good with three wins under their belt. But the reality is other than the opening victory against Greencastle-Antrim, head coach Mark Saunders isn’t too happy. He knows what’s ahead and his club has taken at least a step or two backwards in those victories over winless Waynesboro and Gettysburg. Reality will set in quickly when Chambersburg gets a taste of Central Dauphin at The Speedway. This isn’t the most dynamic Rams team, but the effort is there. QB Ryan Martin hasn’t been called upon much, but he still has nearly 300 yards passing and six touchdowns. And there are plenty of weapons in the arsenal, although RB Jamal Pickett hasn’t played the last two week. Jordan Brown is capable of doing a little bit of everything. The preseason is over. The first real test for this club is Friday night.

THE RAMS: It hasn’t been pretty or easy, but after three weeks Glen McNamee’s club is right where you would expect it to be – two victories in three games with the lone loss coming to rival Bishop McDevitt. But it certainly hasn’t been easy. The Rams’ defense, led by those capable linebackers and a secondary that is getting better each quarter and already has five interceptions, is miles ahead of the offense. In its two victories, CD has surrendered only 24 points. QB Nate Dickey has struggled. He’s completed only 22 of his 50 passes for 201 yards with a single touchdown and three interceptions. But it’s not like the running game is lighting it up. The Rams average 180 yards per game on the ground powered by Malachi Holmes’ 225 stripes and 6.6 per carry. You can win with defense, but eventually the playing field has to become more level.

Chambersburg's Jamal Pickett (Joe Hermitt | jhermitt@pennlive.com)

THE CRUX: What can an offense that has struggled with inconsistency do against a defense that is playing well? Chambersburg must solve that mystery. The Rams will gladly ride their defense to another tight victory.

SHAY SAYS: I’m just wondering which Chambersburg team shows up? Based on recent form, Central Dauphin (pick ‘em) has more elements trending in the right direction. The Trojans have to re-find themselves. And that’s not easy at The Speedway. If nothing else, CD flies to the football on defense. And that could be the difference maker.